Unhinged: Separating Faith from Fiction

Ep14: Why Fear-Based Theology Creates Anxious Christians


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This episode features a live group conversation reflecting on Week One of the Deconstruction / Reconstruction Challenge hosted by Martin Trench.

In this candid conversation, we explore how fear-based theology — especially around the end times, the rapture, and hell — shapes not just beliefs, but anxiety, mental health, physical health, and relationships.

You’ll hear honest reflections from participants as they process what happens when fear begins to loosen its grip on faith:

  • How fear became a foundational ingredient in their Christian faith
  • The emotional and relational costs of deconstruction
  • Why bad eschatology often produces bad fruit
  • The difference between tearing faith down and rebuilding it wisely
  • Why healing the heart matters just as much as reconstructing theology
  • How spiritual maturity allows room for different conclusions
  • Martin shares insights on the unity of the early Church, progressive revelation, and why Jesus never used fear as a formation tool — along with a powerful metaphor for deconstruction and reconstruction using “red bricks” and “blue bricks.”

    If you’ve ever felt anxious, unsettled, or disoriented after questioning long-held beliefs, this episode offers validation, perspective, and a reminder that you’re not alone in the process.

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    Chapters:

    00:00 Why Fear-Based Theology Creates Anxious Christians

    03:02 Rapture Theory & Being “Left Behind”

    05:40 The Fear of Hell & Anxiety

    07:08 The Damage of Purity Culture & the Benefits of Meditation

    09:01 When Doctrine Costs You Community

    14:07 When Beliefs Divide Instead of Unite

    16:58 When Beliefs Change but Wounds Remain

    19:30 When Truth Brings Healing & Wholeness

    20:20 Progressive Revelation: Red Bricks & Blue Bricks

    24:21 Different Journeys, Different Conclusions

    ...more
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    Unhinged: Separating Faith from FictionBy Michele Kus, M.A. & Dr. Martin Trench